9 of the Best Dog-Friendly Day Trips From London
Looking for some amazing day trips from London that you can take with your furry best friend? Look no further! We have compiled a list of the 9 best dog-friendly day trips from London that will not only give you a break from the hustle and bustle of the city, but also allow you to spend some quality time with your four-legged friend. So, pack your bags, leash up your dog, and let’s get started!
When it comes to travelling with your furry friend, there are a few things to consider, such as transportation and accommodations. Here are some options for transport when planning a dog-friendly day trip from London:
1. Train
Taking the train is a convenient and easy way to travel with your dog, as most train companies in the UK allow dogs on board for free. However, it is important to check the specific train company’s pet policy beforehand, as some may have restrictions on certain routes or times of the day. Additionally, make sure to keep your dog on a leash and be respectful of other passengers. Here are some links to help you learn more:
- National Rail Enquiries: This website provides information on train companies, routes, and schedules in the UK. You can also check the pet policy of each train company by clicking on their individual website.
- The Trainline: This website allows you to search for train tickets and offers information on pet policies for each train company.
- Transport for London: This website offers information on public transportation options in London, including trains, buses, and the London Underground.
- Dogs Trust: This website offers helpful tips and advice on travelling with your dog on public transportation in the UK.
Remember, when travelling by train with your dog, make sure to keep them on a leash and be respectful of other passengers. By following the pet policies and being a responsible pet owner, you and your furry friend can enjoy a fun and safe day trip from London.
2. Car
Driving to your destination is a great option if you have a car and want more flexibility with your travel plans. However, it is important to make sure your dog is secured and safe during the car ride, either with a harness or a crate. Additionally, make sure to plan ahead and research any dog-friendly accommodations or attractions in the area.
Renting a car is a great option if you want more flexibility with your travel plans and want to bring your furry friend along for the ride. Here are some links to help you learn more:
- Rentalcars.com: This website allows you to compare prices and rental options from multiple car rental companies in London. You can also search for pet-friendly car rentals and filter your search results.
- Europcar: This car rental company offers pet-friendly options in London and allows pets in their cars for a small fee. You can book online or by phone.
- Hertz: This car rental company allows pets in their cars for a small fee and offers pet-friendly rental options in London. You can book online or by phone.
- PetTravel.com: This website offers helpful tips and advice on renting a car with your pet, including how to prepare your pet for the trip and what to pack.
When renting a car with your dog, make sure to secure them with a harness or crate to ensure a safe and comfortable journey. Additionally, make sure to plan ahead and research dog-friendly accommodations, attractions, and restaurants in the area. By following these tips and being a responsible pet owner, you and your furry friend can enjoy a fun and memorable day trip from London.
3. Bus
Taking the bus is another option for traveling with your dog, but it is important to check the specific bus company’s pet policy beforehand, as some may not allow dogs on board. Additionally, make sure to keep your dog on a leash and be respectful of other passengers.
Here are some useful links to help you find more information about travelling by bus with your pet:
- Transport for London: This website provides information on bus routes, schedules, and fares in London. You can also find out about the pet policies of bus companies that operate in London.
- Stagecoach: This bus company operates services in London and allows well-behaved dogs on board for free. You can check their pet policy on their website.
- National Express: This bus company operates services to destinations outside of London and allows dogs on board for a small fee. You can check their pet policy and book tickets on their website.
- Dogs Trust: This website offers helpful tips and advice on travelling with your dog on public transportation in the UK, including by bus.
Overall, there are plenty of transport options for dog-friendly day trips from London. Just make sure to do your research beforehand and plan ahead to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip for both you and your furry friend.
9 of the Best Dog-Friendly Day Trips
1. Windsor Great Park
Windsor Great Park is a vast parkland located just a short 45-minute drive from London. The park covers over 4,800 acres of land and offers plenty of opportunities for long walks and peaceful picnics. It is a great destination for a day trip with your dog, as dogs are allowed in most areas of the park as long as they are kept on a leash and under control.
One of the highlights of Windsor Great Park is the stunning Virginia Water Lake, which offers picturesque views and a peaceful atmosphere. You and your furry friend can take a leisurely walk around the lake and enjoy the beautiful scenery. The park also offers numerous walking trails and vast woodlands for you and your dog to explore.
If you and your dog are feeling adventurous, you can also visit the famous Windsor Castle, which is located within the park grounds. While dogs are not allowed inside the castle, you can still admire the beautiful architecture and take a walk around the castle grounds.
There are also plenty of dog-friendly cafes and restaurants in the area where you can stop for a bite to eat. The Windsor Farm Shop, located just outside the park gates, offers a variety of delicious treats for both you and your furry friend.
2. Brighton
Brighton is a vibrant seaside town located just over an hour away from London by train. It is a great destination for a day trip with your dog, as there are plenty of dog-friendly beaches, cafes, and restaurants in the area.
One of the highlights of Brighton is the stunning coastline, which offers miles of beautiful beaches and breathtaking views. Dogs are allowed on most of the beaches in Brighton, although there are some restrictions during the peak season. Make sure to check the signs and keep your dog on a leash in designated areas.
If you and your furry friend are feeling adventurous, you can also explore the quirky lanes of Brighton, which are home to a variety of unique shops and cafes. There are also numerous dog-friendly restaurants in the area where you can stop for a bite to eat, including The Watch That Ends The Night and The Ginger Dog.
For a more peaceful experience, you can take a walk through the stunning Stanmer Park, which is located just outside of Brighton. This park offers picturesque views and plenty of walking trails for you and your dog to explore.
3. New Forest National Park
New Forest National Park is located approximately two hours away from London, but it is definitely worth the drive. This beautiful national park offers breathtaking views of rolling hills, heathland, and ancient woodlands. It is a great destination for a day trip with your dog, as there are numerous walking trails and plenty of wildlife to see.
One of the highlights of New Forest National Park is the stunning scenery. You and your furry friend can take a leisurely walk along one of the many walking trails and enjoy the beautiful views. Make sure to keep your dog on a leash and be respectful of the wildlife in the area.
Another great activity in New Forest National Park is to explore the charming villages and historic towns in the area. You and your dog can stroll through the quaint streets and visit local shops and cafes. Some of the dog-friendly attractions in the area include the Beaulieu National Motor Museum and the New Forest Wildlife Park.
There are also plenty of dog-friendly pubs and restaurants in the area where you can stop for a bite to eat. The White Buck Inn and The Foresters Arms are two popular options.
Read more about New Forest on our website here.
4. Canterbury
Canterbury is an ancient city located just under two hours away from London by train. It is a great destination for a day trip with your dog, as there are plenty of historic attractions, charming streets, and dog-friendly cafes and restaurants in the area.
One of the highlights of Canterbury is the stunning Canterbury Cathedral, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. While dogs are not allowed inside the cathedral, you can still admire the beautiful architecture and take a walk around the cathedral grounds. There are also numerous walking trails in the area, including the famous Pilgrims’ Way.
Another great activity in Canterbury is to explore the quaint streets and local shops. There are plenty of dog-friendly cafes and restaurants in the area where you can stop for a bite to eat, including The Goods Shed and The Refectory Kitchen.
If you and your furry friend are feeling adventurous, you can also visit the nearby Blean Woods, which offer plenty of walking trails and stunning views. Just make sure to keep your dog on a leash and be respectful of the wildlife in the area.
5. Oxford
Oxford is a historic city located just over an hour away from London by train. It is a great destination for a day trip with your dog, as there are plenty of dog-friendly attractions, stunning architecture, and beautiful walking trails in the area.
One of the highlights of Oxford is the famous Oxford University, which is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the world. While dogs are not allowed inside the buildings, you can still take a walk around the university grounds and admire the stunning architecture. The River Thames also runs through the city, offering a peaceful atmosphere and plenty of walking trails.
Another great activity in Oxford is to visit the famous Ashmolean Museum, which is one of the oldest museums in the world. While dogs are not allowed inside the museum, you can still admire the beautiful architecture and visit the museum gardens.
There are also plenty of dog-friendly cafes and restaurants in the area where you can stop for a bite to eat, including The Perch and The Trout. You can also treat your furry friend to a pint at one of the many dog-friendly pubs in the area.
For a more peaceful experience, you can take a walk through the stunning University Parks, which offer picturesque views and plenty of walking trails for you and your dog to explore.
Read more about Oxford on our website here.
6. Cotswolds
The Cotswolds is an area of outstanding natural beauty located approximately two hours away from London. It is a great destination for a day trip with your dog, as there are plenty of charming villages, rolling hills, and stunning countryside to explore.
One of the highlights of the Cotswolds is the picturesque villages, which offer a glimpse into traditional English life. You and your furry friend can stroll through the charming streets, visit local shops and cafes, and admire the stunning architecture. Some of the dog-friendly attractions in the area include the Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens and the Cotswold Falconry Centre.
There are also plenty of walking trails in the area, including the famous Cotswold Way, which offers breathtaking views of the countryside. Just make sure to keep your dog on a leash and be respectful of the wildlife in the area.
For a bite to eat, there are plenty of dog-friendly cafes and restaurants in the area, including The Old Prison in Northleach and The Feathered Nest Country Inn in Nether Westcote. You can also enjoy a traditional English afternoon tea at one of the many tea rooms in the area.
Read more about Cotswolds on our website here.
7. Seven Sisters Country Park
Seven Sisters Country Park is a stunning coastal park located just over an hour away from London by train. It is a great destination for a day trip with your dog, as there are plenty of walking trails, picnic areas, and breathtaking views of the Seven Sisters cliffs.
One of the highlights of Seven Sisters Country Park is the stunning coastline. You and your furry friend can take a leisurely walk along the coast and enjoy the beautiful views of the cliffs and the English Channel. Dogs are allowed in most areas of the park, although there are some restrictions during the peak season. Make sure to check the signs and keep your dog on a leash in designated areas.
Another great activity in Seven Sisters Country Park is to explore the vast walking trails and take in the beautiful countryside. The park is home to numerous walking trails that offer picturesque views and plenty of opportunities to see wildlife.
There are also plenty of picnic areas in the park where you can stop for a bite to eat. Just make sure to pack plenty of water and snacks for your furry friend.
8. Rye
Rye is a charming medieval town located just over an hour away from London by train. It is a great destination for a day trip with your dog, as there are plenty of dog-friendly attractions, historic landmarks, and scenic walking trails in the area.
One of the highlights of Rye is the stunning Rye Harbour Nature Reserve, which offers breathtaking views of the coast and plenty of opportunities to see wildlife. You and your furry friend can take a leisurely walk along the nature reserve and enjoy the beautiful scenery. Dogs are allowed in most areas of the nature reserve, although there are some restrictions during the breeding season. Make sure to check the signs and keep your dog on a leash in designated areas.
Another great activity in Rye is to explore the charming cobbled streets and historic landmarks, including the Ypres Tower and the Rye Castle Museum. There are also plenty of dog-friendly cafes and restaurants in the area where you can stop for a bite to eat, including The George in Rye and The Ship Inn.
For a more peaceful experience, you can take a walk through the nearby Camber Sands, which offers miles of beautiful beaches and sand dunes. Just make sure to keep your dog on a leash and be respectful of the wildlife in the area.
9. Box Hill
How about taking a trip to Box Hill in Surrey? Box Hill is a stunning national trust site located just over an hour away from London by train. It is a great destination for a day trip with your dog, as there are plenty of walking trails, breathtaking views, and dog-friendly amenities in the area.
One of the highlights of Box Hill is the stunning views of the Surrey countryside. You and your furry friend can take a leisurely walk along one of the many walking trails and enjoy the beautiful scenery. Dogs are allowed in most areas of the park, but make sure to keep them on a leash and be respectful of the wildlife.
Another great activity in Box Hill is to visit the famous viewpoint, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. There are also numerous picnic areas in the park where you can stop for a bite to eat and enjoy the scenery.
For a more adventurous experience, you can also take a walk down the famous Zig Zag Road, which is a steep and winding road that offers stunning views of the countryside. Just make sure to keep your dog on a leash and be careful when walking down the road.
Conclusion
London is an excellent starting point for a dog-friendly day trip with your furry friend. With so many options to choose from, ranging from beautiful countryside walks to historical and cultural experiences, there’s something for every type of dog and owner. From the idyllic villages of the Cotswolds to the stunning beaches of Brighton, the options are endless. Whether you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city or simply want to explore new places with your dog, these day trips are sure to provide a fun and memorable experience for both you and your furry companion. So pack a picnic, put on your walking shoes, and head out to explore some of the best dog-friendly day trips from London.
